Norfolk, VA - The first string offense and defense competed today in a high tempo full contact scrimmage. Head Coach Bobby Wilder said, "We throw everything at them today, first, second, third and forth down situations and let them decide what was going to happen through out the drive." "I was pleased with how sharp our first string offense and defense looked and competed on both sides of the ball."

The ODU football Monarchs saw over 50 reps in different situations. Coach Wilder said, "I was really impressed with our 2's and 3's", referring to the second and three string offense and defense, "and they are making tremendous progress from last year to this year."

Coach Wilder also complemented the physical play of his offense and defensive lines throughout today's practice. "This is one area we really need to get better, " stated Wilder. Old Dominion University was ranked 18th nationally in total offense through 11 games with 737 plays attempted for 4,384 yards and 52 touchdowns. On defense, the Monarchs recovered 15 fumbles ranking tied for fourth nationally and eighth in turnovers gained.

In the final segment of today's practice the ball was placed inside the 25-yard line and the defense forced three field goals on all three attempts. "This was a major accomplishment for our defense with their back against the wall," added Coach Wilder. The Monarchs struggled defensively in the red zone last year allowing 35 scores on 45 drives.

Monarch Moments:
Devon Simmons scooped up a fumble and returned it 60 yards for the touchdown during first-string scrimmage. Freshman safety, Devon Simmons from Newport News, VA totaled 47 tackles, 4 interceptions and recovered one fumble as a starter in the 2009 season.

Mario Crawford busted a 40 yard touchdown ran as the offensive line picked up the blitzing defense. Crawford is a freshman running back from Detroit, Michigan this year attempting 99 rushes for 600 yards and 6 touchdowns.

Remember the Spring Football game is April 24th at 1 p.m. in Foreman Field.